In a dramatic shake-up of royal living arrangements, Prince Andrew faces eviction from his lavish Windsor home, Royal Lodge, following direct orders from King Charles III. The Duke of York's refusal to downsize from the 30-room mansion has triggered a constitutional crisis within the monarchy.
A Royal Standoff at Royal Lodge
The 64-year-old prince has called the Grade II-listed Royal Lodge home for over two decades, sharing the expansive property with his ex-wife Sarah, Duchess of York. Despite their divorce, the unusual living arrangement has persisted, with both enjoying the privileges of the royal estate.
Sources close to the King reveal that Charles has grown increasingly frustrated with his brother's reluctance to relocate to the more modest Frogmore Cottage, previously home to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Financial Pressures Mount
The royal ultimatum comes amid growing financial constraints within the monarchy. Maintaining Royal Lodge costs approximately £400,000 annually just for upkeep, a burden the King is unwilling to bear given Andrew's diminished royal role.
The funding situation has become increasingly precarious since Andrew stepped back from public duties in 2019 following the Jeffrey Epstein scandal and his subsequent settlement in a civil sexual assault case.
Where Could Andrew Go Next?
Several options are being considered for the Duke's future accommodation:
- Frogmore Cottage: The most likely destination, though significantly smaller than his current home
- Buckingham Palace: Potentially smaller apartments within the royal residence
- Private accommodation: The possibility of Andrew securing his own private residence
Royal experts suggest that Andrew's determination to remain at Royal Lodge stems from his emotional attachment to the property where he raised his daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.
A Test of Royal Authority
This confrontation represents one of King Charles's most significant tests of authority since ascending the throne. The outcome will set a precedent for how the slimmed-down monarchy handles royal residences and members who no longer undertake public duties.
The situation remains fluid, with palace officials working behind the scenes to negotiate a resolution that preserves royal dignity while addressing practical and financial realities.
